The United Kingdom is bracing for the reintroduction of a ban on carrying liquids over 100ml at six major airports due to a setback in the deployment of new 3D scanning technology. As of midnight on Sunday, passengers departing from London City, Aberdeen, Newcastle, Leeds/Bradford, Southend, and Teesside airports will be impacted by the temporary reinstatement of the ban.
The Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC) initially allowed these airports to eliminate the 100ml rule by utilizing advanced CT scanners to create 3D images of baggage contents. The intention was to streamline security checks, but recent disruptions and chaos at Birmingham Airport highlighted challenges within the process.
Passengers endured lengthy queues following the implementation of new 100ml liquid rules, resulting in widespread frustration. The added strain was attributed to ongoing construction at the airport, compounded by uncertainties surrounding the combination of old and new liquid carrying rules. This confusion has prompted the temporary reinstatement of the 100ml liquid limit at the six affected airports.
This year, certain airports will permit passengers to carry 330ml containers (2L) through security, departing from the standard 100ml limit. CT scanners, similar to those used in hospitals, produce high-resolution 3D images enabling precise baggage checks without requiring item removal, thereby expediting the security process. Additionally, passengers will be allowed to leave liquids, laptops, and electronics inside their baggage during security checks.
However, inconsistencies in the implementation of these new rules have resulted in significant delays and confusion among passengers. Images and social media posts showcased the extent of the chaos, with families queuing outside terminals enduring long, serpentine lines. Numerous individuals expressed dissatisfaction, with some reporting missed flights due to prolonged waiting times and uncertainties at security checkpoints.
Additionally, Birmingham Airport was one of the few UK airports to meet the government’s deadline for installing new scanners by June 1. However, several major airports, including London Gatwick, London Stansted, East Midlands, and Manchester, have announced that they will not be able to implement the new scanning technology until 2025, adding to the challenges faced by travellers.
The introduction of fast-track 3D scanners and the state-of-the-art security hall upgrade at Birmingham Airport aimed to reduce waiting times and accommodate larger quantities of liquid in hand luggage. With the new technology in place, passengers can expect to navigate security more efficiently, provided that the rules are communicated clearly and executed consistently across all airports.
The recent disruption at UK airports underscores the importance of seamless implementation and effective communication when introducing new technology and processes. It highlights the significance of effective planning and execution amid the ongoing advancements in the industry.